In this week’s episode of The Living Experiment, we explore the difference between “Healthy” and “Hot.” We share what both of these descriptions mean, at least to us, and how our definitions of hot and healthy have evolved over time.
We address the problem of hyper-perfected ideals in the media, the downsides of chasing aesthetics and metrics that don’t actually result in health, and we share some real-life experiments that can help you shift your own self-perception and body-image ideals in a healthier, happier direction.
“Healthy vs. Hot” Episode Highlights
- Looking better vs. feeling better: Pursuing health (not just the appearance of it) for wise reasons
- Redefining “health” both mentally and emotionally
- What do we mean when we call someone “hot” and what’s that all about?
- Expressions of health as a signifier of potential-mate value, plus the evolutionary biology phenomenon of “faked fitness”
- Choosing good role models for health
- Reframing and refocusing your goals for health and fitness
Take a physical tour of your home, car, workplace, and gym space and look closely at the images you see reflected back at you. Notice how being confronted with hyper-perfected bodies and images of idealized physiques is affecting you. Consider putting (or throwing) away the images that make you feel lousy. Take the same tour of your social media feeds.
Take a mental tour of your life and look at how different comparisons, opinions and goals affect you on an emotional level. Ask if they make you feel good – is an idealized version of your own body really going to make you feel a lot better about yourself? Is “I’ll be happier when…” contributing to or detracting from your health and wellbeing?
Healthy-Living Wisdom, Delivered to Your Door
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Resources
- Read Pilar’s related article, “Health: The New Sex Symbol” (from Experience Life magazine)
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